Kathmandu, June 1 -- Prime Minister Balendra Shah was facing criticism for not speaking. Then he spoke. And he is now facing even fiercer criticism.

On Sunday, Shah expressed his desire to respond to lawmakers' questions. In response to one question regarding Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani, Shah said Nepal too has "encroached upon Indian territory," causing an uproar in Parliament.

"You might find it strange, but I also learned only recently-after becoming prime minister-that it's not just India; Nepal too has encroached upon Indian territory in many places," Shah said.

The statement drew sharp reactions and criticism. Opposition lawmakers demanded that the prime minister's remarks be expunged.

Diplomats and experts on border ma...